Odisha political dispute erupts over new mining amendment bill

Political tension has escalated in Odisha following the passage of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, by Parliament. The opposition BJD and Congress parties have raised concerns that the legislation threatens the state’s fiscal autonomy and federal structure.

Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Bhakta Charan Das has urged Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to convene an all-party meeting and a special Assembly session. Das argued that the bill centralizes power by stripping states of the authority to levy taxes, cesses, and royalties on mineral-bearing lands, which could lead to unpredictable revenue losses for mineral-rich regions.

The BJP has rejected these claims, asserting that the amendments will not cause revenue loss but will instead foster a more competitive and transparent mining market. BJP spokesperson Anil Biswal stated that the reforms will accelerate the production of critical minerals, such as those needed for semiconductors, and attract fresh investment. The BJP noted that mining revenue in Odisha has risen significantly under the current administration compared to previous regimes, citing the success of the premium auction system and the District Mineral Foundation.